In the July 20, 2006 guest commentary “UO should eschew department of defense research ONAMI funds,” the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) raised questions about the nature and implications of research involving the Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute (ONAMI) and supported by the U.S. Department of Defense.
As is typical of U.S. research universities, the University of Oregon submits proposals and accepts D.o.D grants for non-classified research. Research results are subject to peer review and are publicly disseminated through scholarly publication. The non-classified research at the University has been accomplished in fields ranging from civilian emergency preparedness to “green chemistry,” in which researchers seek to eliminate environmental hazards.
The University of Oregon is committed to the principle of academic freedom allowing researchers and students to engage in the pursuit of new knowledge and innovative applications of research. Publicly supported research is essential if we, as a university community, are to continue advancing the knowledge needed to address societal concerns. This commitment forms the core of the University’s mission as a comprehensive research university.
Faculty must be free to seek external funding that supports the mission of the University. Any funding received, irrespective of its source, is held to the same rigorous standards for the responsible conduct of research. The University does not allow any classified research at its facilities by university faculty, staff, or students. All research conducted at University facilities is subjected to the same transparent system that allows for open examination of the assumptions, methodologies and results obtained in the investigations. Classified research related to the development of weapons systems is simply not permitted at the University.
Non-classified research supported by the U.S. Department of Defense is focused on researching and commercializing nanoscience and microtechnologies to foster the creation of new products, companies and jobs in Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest. The D.o.D funds will accelerate the University’s research on developing environmentally friendly nanotechnologies, and on approaches to make and measure materials properties at the nanometer scale. The science promises to revolutionize many technological applications, from electronics to biomedicine. Although cited by the SDS authors for its potential military use, research being conducted to develop portable power and water-purification systems has the potential to help first responders more effectively confront natural or man-made disasters worldwide.
The University is committed to the open and free exchange of ideas, including the research conducted in its facilities and laboratories. Engaging in research that promotes the advancement of our global community is an important and continuing mission for the University.
Richard W. Linton is Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at the University
Defense department research supports mission of University
Daily Emerald
July 26, 2006
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